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 Banking on ArtAll digits and no colour play make banking a dull business. New-age banks realise this well and an all-out effort is being made to include arty, cultural and sporty activity even when the real thing is all in numbers, says Parbina Rashid Who says banking is a dry business? Welcome to new-age banking and what you will find here is a hard-core professional institute with a humane face. The bunch of young executives, are not just there to take care of your financial health but also your cultural needs. And rightly so, for then banking becomes much more than what Wordsworth would put it as just ‘buying and spending’. Also, opposites attract and art and money go well together. EXTRA-CURRICULAR: Shilpi Chowdhary of Citibank has a M.F. Husain painting at his office. — Photo by Manoj Mahajan Removing stains from carpets Tech Talk I was passionate about cricket: Amit Varma
Trifles that tear honey and moon! FILM & FASHION
Seasons in the sun
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Banking on Art Who says banking is a dry business? Welcome to new-age banking and what you will find here is a hard-core professional institute with a humane face. The bunch of young executives, are not just there to take care of your financial health but also your cultural needs. And rightly so, for then banking becomes much more than what Wordsworth would put it as just ‘buying and spending’. Also, opposites attract and art and money go well together. Of course, this is not to say that art cannot be money. On the other hand, money cannot be art but it can certainly buy art. That is much better than buying just estate, automobiles and diamonds. Enter the Citibank. The plush interior in a well co-ordinated colour scheme and M.F. Husain’s paintings decorating the walls are enough to give you a complex. Even the well-groomed executives make your old teller look like someone from the Jurassic era. But do not leave. Talk to one of those enthusiastic souls and you will know they are working equally hard to fit into your world as you are trying to fit into theirs.
Sense of belonging! An effort is being made to connect with the society in different ways. It is evident from the fact that more and more banks are engaging themselves in social activities. “Banking is serious business, but that does not mean that we neglect our social responsibilities,” says Shilpi Chowdhary, Branch Manager of Citibank. The bank recently organised a live screening of a cricket match for the residents of Rajiv Vihar. This was to bring the entire community together while enjoying a few light moments. But more than that, it was because “we want to feel that sense of belongingness,” to quote the branch head. If sporting activity is there, fashion too is finding a place. So recently, they joined hands with a hair expert and organised a hair-grooming session! Art patrons Artists have always been the most preferred community for these new-look banks. Who can forget the art exhibitions organised by the Bank of Punjab every year at Punjab Kala Bhavan? Even Citibank had roped in child artists of the city and sold their paintings so that the money could go to a blood bank society. However, the pioneer is still the IndusInd Bank, which opened a full time art gallery just to help artists in 1997. The gallery has been proving free service to all artists – upcoming or established. The driving force What is the driving force behind such motivation? A mileage for the bank? “To a certain extent yes!” says A. P. Singh. “By associating with such activities we are becoming more visible in the market,” he says. For Shilpi, it is more about earning goodwill and generating healthy competition in the market. And, of course, reaching out through word of mouth! Thank God for the healthy competition! For, cultural activities apart, even visiting a bank has now become a tolerable exercise. Encouraging children to save money is another business these young banks take very seriously. IndusInd Bank had initiated a prize-money scheme for young savers. “We call it the Young Savers’ Scholarship and do it at all levels — regional and national,” says A.P. Singh, in charge of IndusInd Art Gallery. Citibank too has come out with a novel idea. A book “Understanding Money” has been just published for children. The book will not be marketed but will be distributed among students at a nominal price. “Our executives will also visit different schools and talk to young children about the value of money,” says Shilpi. In days when bey blades are drilling a big hole into their pocket money, this move will surely be appreciated by the aggrieved parents. |
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Removing stains from carpets Good quality carpets, rugs and fabrics require an attentive care regime, if one wishes to enjoy their beauty for a longer duration. Here are the steps to cleaning them and for removing stains from them:
—Courtesy: A. P. Singh, Besten & Co.
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Tech Talk Geography and History can be fun too! Picture a Geography class in progress with a beautiful 3D globe projected on the board. The lesson is focussed on the Great Wall of China, but instead of staring blankly at their books, the students are mesmerized by actual images of the Great Wall. The camera zooms in to give a clearer view of the terrain and other details. This ability to ‘fly’ to any location across the globe while sitting in the comfort of your home or classroom is courtesy a new geographic search tool from Google called ‘Google Earth’. Google Earth is a new application that combines local search with satellite images and maps from around the globe. Currently available for download as a desktop application, you need to be connected to the Internet to use it. Every time you open Google Earth, it gives you access to geographical, political and social data. For instance, you can view a city with certain “layers” turned on, including topographical information, population data and crime statistics for the area. Other options include dining, lodging, banks, roads, terrain, malls, grocery stores, parks, schools and geographic features. Google Earth is arguably the greatest free download available right now, and most people are thrilled with what it offers. Google Earth is completely free to download and is still in beta testing. One can start by downloading the free version of the software located at http://earth.google.com. When you first open Google Earth, your view is of the entire globe. You can either use the controls or Google Earth’s search functions to zoom in on a specific location. For instance, if you type “White House, Washington DC” into the Google Earth search box and click Search, you zoom in from space to that particular address. While Google Earth comprises an array of features, the basic features fit loosely into Fly To, Local Search and Sightseeing. One of the most amazing aspects of Google Earth is the video flyover. If you’re looking at “Delhi” and you do a search for “ USA”, you don’t just end up in USA, but the program flies you there, so you can see the terrain and all the countries beneath you as you make your way to your destination. This is as close as it gets to actually flying! One common response is of sheer awe and joy at the dramatically increased access to the world. What all you can do Who all benefit from this tool? With Google Earth’s Local Search, you can search for a particular location or business in any city in the US, Canada or UK. All those of you whose children and relatives are living in any of these countries can now type in their exact street address, and you have the place in front of you. If you haven’t yet had the time to travel the globe, Google Earth is your new best friend. You can zoom in on global landmarks by clicking on a location in the “Sightseeing” box, which lists the most popular destinations, including the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Arizona’s Grand Canyon and Vatican City in Rome. So, all those of you who’ve always longed to see exotic places and locales across USA, Canada and Europe, as well as other points of interest like schools, colleges, restaurants can take the fascinating journey from the comfort of their homes totally free of cost. The days of boring history and geography classes are long gone. It no longer takes intensive research to track down a satellite image of the Egyptian pyramids or of the White House. All you have to do is download Google Earth and you’ve got a bird’s-eye view of the world. Start your Google Earth world tour now! Courtesy: Atul Gupta, CEO, RedAlkemi
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I was passionate about cricket: Amit Varma
Were you interested in acting since childhood? I was very passionate about cricket and acting. In school, I took coaching in cricket from Ramakant Achrekar (Sachin Tendulkar’s coach) but had to give it up because of education. I was equally passionate about acting so I made up my mind that for acting, I will not let any reason be a hindrance. How did your modelling career start? In college, I realised that ramp modeling isn’t the kind of career I was looking for. So I started modeling in studios for products immediately after my graduation. It took me roughly six months to get my first break in advertisements. The thums up commercial provided the mileage for many more ads to follow like Lifebuoy, Surf, VIP, BSNL. Then I did the Airtel commercial where I featured with Shahrukh Khan. How about videos and serials? After these ads, I did a music video for HMV for Kishore Kumar’s song “Haan Pehli Baar” Then I got the role of a sweet weird flirt called Raju in the serial Khichdi. Then I bagged the central character of Vish opposite Sonal Sehgal in serial Hotel Kingston for Star One. What do you like...apart from acting? I enjoy music, dancing, cricket, watching films and sleeping. —Dharam Pal
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Chandigarh shahar da
munda This misty dreamer drags out his brushes and paint-pots in the dazzling sun. Optimistically, he colours his dreams with the most vivid colours of compelling logic and courageous endeavor. No wonder, this six footer hunk Pankaj Bhatia has already made ripples, if not waves, in the sea of snazzy serials, including Kahin Kisi Roz, Kahani Ghar Ghar Ki, Kayamat, Pancham and Apne Mere Apne, and has been spotted in the ads of Bajaj Discover DTS-1 and Bluestar ACs. And here’s some news for the city gals— the Chandigarh based struggling actor who was among the seven finalists of Grasim Mr India, 2000, goes absolutely gaga about the city and its beautiful girls. “This is the place where I belong. I really miss the city’s smooth roads and sprawling lush gardens. And of course, the most wonderful part is Chandigarh shahar di kudi,” he flashes that hundred-watt smile. But the light mood gets sombre as he talks about his four-year struggle in Mumbai, “ Acting for the small screen is looked upon as a shortcut to instant success. But people don’t see the amount of hard work, persistence and patience involved. One has to build a great body, get portfolios done and constantly call the production houses to get noticed. And most important, a constant honing of the acting and speech skills is a must. I still remember how hard I practiced to get my Hindi accent right.” This absolute foodie, who loves digging his teeth into Cadbury chocolates, stuffed paronthas and homemade butter, dreams big, “My eyes are set on the stars.” He muses. At the same time however, his dreamy eyes are not blinded by lack of logic. “It’s a hard world out there in the media and one should be on a strong financial footing. Like I became a medical transcripter to earn enough to support myself and carry on with my struggle.” With many more DD-1 serials in the pipeline, and negotiations with Balaji production house going on, this young model has no time to freak out. But still remembers the good old times he spent with pals at Student-Centre. “Nothing beats lazing around in the sun with friends, sipping Stu-C’s cuppa of coffee.” He giggles. Smiling, this city lad raises his gaze towards the blue sky. Yes, his eyes beckon the stars, or perhaps a place even beyond the stars. The place where all dreams are really born!
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Trifles that tear honey and moon! Have you been going steady and now getting ready for marriage? You have stars in the eyes and rainbows in your heart? And, perhaps, you are being showered with sound and sage advice from well meaning people who think they know better. Yet, you’ll do better if you heed the following little things that can part the honey from the moon. When faced with a bunch of lovely hair in the sink, the Prince Charming looses much of his charm, as well as temper. Strands in the comb make him put up his hackles. Love him, honour him, humour him (and his dog) but do not leave hair in the sink. It looks far more pretty on your head! Uttering I love you fifty times a day does not matter but it’s vital for you to discover whether your prospective husband is a rise and shiner or stay-in-bedder. Whereas a stayer married to a riser may spell happiness, a stayer married to another stayer will spin resentment, as argument rages as to whose turn it is to get the morning cuppa. And what about the misery that can arise if a blanket extrovert marries a head under blanket introvert? The latter buries head, the former wants to breathe. Does your man empty his pockets at night? If not, will you mind doing this chore every night for him? Now, that hubbies do spend time in the kitchen, it’s important to check up on your chef’s habit at the kitchen sink. How does he wash up? Is he a careful scrapper or stacker? Glasses first, by- the-book type? Or is he a happy-go-lucky operator? Do you carefully wrap all garbage in paper but he slings everything in the dustbin unwrapped? Watch. Cleanliness may be next to Godliness but it’s next to impossible with a slovenly spouse. For the same reason it is important to watch the way your partner eats. One reason why Tolstoy’s marriage embittered was he ate his food noisily. The wife hated it. Another trifle arises when one is gobbler, the other a chewer. The quicker eater is in for stretches of boredom, just waiting for his partner to finish the chewing cud. Also, watch car compatibility. Do you apply imaginary brakes when the other is at wheel? Well, check on these trifles. Or these will tear honey and moon apart sooner than you can speak, “I love you.”
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FILM & FASHION
Christina Aguilera, who recently married record producer Jordan Bratman, is considering changing her name to Maria Bratman. The pop singer said that she wants to take her hubby’s surname for legal purposes, but professionally she will remain Christina Aguilera. “I’ll probably always be Christina Aguilera professionally, but I’m thinking of changing some legal things and going by my middle name Maria and his last name,” Ratethemusic quoted her as saying. She has also dedicated a song to Bratman to thank him for saving her from not believing in people any more. The track, ‘Save me from myself’ will appear on her next album. —ANI Jessica Parker loves motherhood
Sarah Jessica Parker’s favourite role is playing a mother, not only on-screen, but also off-screen. The actress, who has a three-year old son James Wilke with husband Matthew Broderick, says motherhood has completely changed her life and she finds the world even more beautiful. “Having a child has focused my life in a way that nothing else has. My world view is different. I’ve been with my son every day lately. I’m taking him to school, picking him up, doing everything a mother does. It’s been the happiest time of my life,” Fox News quoted Parker as telling Grazia magazine. She, however, admitted that being a working mum is better for both the mother and the kid. “To be totally candid, I feel it makes me a better mother to be outside the home sometimes. I don’t know that I have the personality to spend concentrated time alone with my child without working,” she said. Parker also said that happiness comes with a price tag, so one has work to earn money. “And I feel like my work gives him opportunities he wouldn’t have otherwise. Matthew and I know how lucky we are after, say, a great musician has visited our home and sung with our son for four or five hours. Sure, there’s a price for working all the time, but, God, there are benefits too,” she added. —ANI Anastacia refuses to bare all
Even though pop beauty Anastacia likes exposing her curvaceous figure in low-slung jeans and revealing tops, she is completely against baring her all for publicity purposes, as she believes that it is far sexier to dress up than strip down to her lingerie. The ‘Not that kind’ singer has vowed never to give nude shots for a magazine cover, despite being flooded with lucrative offers. “I believe it is much sexier to leave something to the imagination,” she added.
—ANI Petra Nemcova’s book on tsunami
Supermodel Petra Nemcova who survived last year’s Asian Tsunami has translated her account of terror and fear into a book in which she recounts the dreadful tragedy that cost millions of lives including her boyfriend Simon Atlee. The gorgeous catwalk queen recalls her joy at emerging battered but alive from the floodwaters and the emptiness of realising her boyfriend had been swept away. “There was not even a second to think. A rush of water came from all directions, hurtling us out into the furious current,” she writes in her book ‘Love Petra Always’ Even as Nemcova grasped desperately for something to hold onto, she heard Atlee screaming, “Petra, what’s happening?” I couldn’t answer. I didn’t know,” she wrote. “Then I lost sight of him,” she adds. Nemcova, who was rescued and spent months recovering from broken bones and internal injuries, has pledged to donate all the book’s proceeds to Give 2 Asia Happy Hearts Fund, a tsunami relief group, reports the New York Daily News. —ANI Claire Danes in support of
anti-depressants!
Hollywood actress Claire Danes has joined the bandwagon of celebrities who have voiced their approval of the use of anti-depressants to cure depression. The “Romeo and Juliet” star believes that such medicines are meant to help people, and that she had seen them work wonders for many of her friends. “It’s great when it frees somebody from the oppression of that awful, dark feeling so that they can really start investigating consciously what it is that’s ailing them. That’s my stand. A lot of my friends have been helped by antidepressants,” Femalefirst quoted her, as saying. Danes’ comments are being seen as a veiled attack on “Top Gun” actor Tom Cruise, who earlier this year, launched a full-mouthed attack on actress Brooke Shields for using the drugs to help her fight postpartum depression, calling it as ‘misguided’. The indignant Shields then hit back at Cruise and labelled his comments to be “irresponsible and dangerous”.—ANI Gisele to work in Meryl Streep movie
Gisele Bundchen, super model and ex-girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio, has joined the cast of Meryl Streep’s new movie “The Devil wears Prada”. David Frankel writes the script and will also directs the movie. The movie, based on the book written by Lauren Weisberger of the same name, is about a boss from hell. It deals with how a small-town girl gets a job as an assistant to a high-powered editor. According to ananova.com, Bundchen had made her debut in last year’s “Taxi” playing a female bank robber who robs New York’s banks.—IANS
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Handmade in the Hills This holds true of Himachal Pradesh too and thus in the first week of December we have an exhibition of the hill handicrafts at the Lajpat Rai Bhawan in Chandigarh’s Sector 15. This exhibition has become an annual feature for the past seven years or so. D.K. Gupta, general manager of the HP state Handicrafts and Handloom Corporation, says: “Our effort is to bring the crafts persons for live demonstrations as well as showcase the work of the hill people that is\ being done through cooperatives and NGOs.” Something new this year are the snug kurtis and dainty jackets sewn out of colourful shawls. This was done keeping in mind the latest trends in women’s wears, especially for the young who do not wish to be burdened with shawls. Stitched elegantly, these kurits, jackets and tops start from Rs 500 and go on to 1, 000. “These garments have proved very popular and the very first morning we have sold at least twenty-five of them,” says Gupta. These would make ideal warm wear in the cold months and a few sparkles and sequins added, they could serve as trendy party wear. There is a stall selling very affordable tweed jackets for children, women and men. Snuggly shawls Himachali shawls are always a big draw and there is a large variety to choose from. Enter the exhibition and there is a Kullu weaver sitting on his loom and weaving in the familiar Kullu geometric borders. The Kinnauri Pattoo shawls are particularly attractive woven beautifully in rich colours. The price range starts from Rs 3,500 and goes up Rs 25, 000. The prices are reasonable for it takes a month to a year to weave each shawl. Pashmina is there and the weavers insist it is genuine coming in off-white, pale green and gray and as it gets finer in quality the prices rise. The range starts at Rs 8,000 to Rs 30,000. The final test for the finest is that it should pass through a finger ring. The Pangwali blankets too are available aplenty starting from Rs 500 and going up to Rs 1500 each. Cap it all When the exhibition is from the Himachal hills, one can be sure of socks, gloves, scarves, mufflers and of course some delightful traditional caps. The bright-bordered Kinnauri and Kullu caps start at just Rs 50 each. There are wonderful knitted ones in raw wool with mufflers to match and the set comes for just Rs 200. Gloves and socks are knitted with colourful patterns and have a Christmasy touch to them. Chamba footwear The traditional leather sandals for men and women from Chamba are delightful indeed. Kavinder Kumar who is a leather craftsman says that these are handmade with beautiful patterns cut out in them. The range for women begins at just Rs 50 and goes up to Rs 300. The male footwear begins from Rs 200 and goes up to Rs 550. A very interesting pair is the one with leather socks that fit into the sandals. Gupta tells, “This is traditional wear and now there is just one living craftsman in Chamba who makes them. His name is Chain Lal.” The pair is a steal for just Rs 550. So now that the nip in the air is turning into a bite, it is time to visit this exhibition to warm up for the cold days ahead. The exhibition will remain open till December 11.
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Cashing in on Crime This one is for the students of mass communication, who have to endlessly debate on the supremacy of electronic media over print media. Star News’ investigative news bulletin Sansani completes one year of success, and guess whom do they come running to with the announcement– us, the humble print media! They did it in style. A bagful of information giving the statistics of their market share (28 per cent) since its launch on November 2004, a comparative study with other similar programmes with a headline screaming at the top that it is the “most watched crime show across all Hindi news channels.” Besides bringing in Shazi Zaman, Deputy News Director, Star News, Ajit Anjum, producer of Sansani and the anchor of the programme Shrivardhan Trivedi (reminds you of Tarun Tejpal), the promotional team also consisted of a 6 feet by 4 feet giant screen to do the talking. “Sansani is the people’s voice,” says Zaman. Have not we heard this one before? The programme stands out on two accounts, he elaborates, its mission to accomplish the task and the aggressive presentation. “In fact every night at 11pm, Shrivardhan’s voice brings fear to the culprits,” he says. After seeing him on the giant screen with the dramatic effects, we could not help but agree with him. A pass out from the National School of Drama (NSD) and an established film and TV actor, Srivardhan’s transformation from the soft-spoken guy to the aggressive crusader against crime is quite dramatic. Being an artiste has helped him not just doing the presentation but his artistic sensitivity has come handy while handling his subject. “Over the year I have become a part of the programme. Sometimes I am so angry that if I lay my hands on the culprit, God only knows what will happen to him,” he says with a lot of passion. He expression has all the right effects, which shows he did not miss much while he was at the NSD. However, Sansani is not just a crime-based programme, all three are quick to point that out. It is a crusade against social injustice, restoration of moral values, telling the victims that they are not alone in their fight and also to show the bright side of life. After exposing quite a few cases of kabutarbazi ( immigration rackets) here, Sansani is once again up in arms against these illegal agents. “We are going after them once again with renewed vigour and also launch our new mission Mujhe Insaf Chahiye based on crime against women,” they say. What about drawing the line between exposing crime and invading someone’s privacy? “The ethical dilemma is always there. But once we establish that exposing a particular case will be on the public interest, we go ahead with our mission,” says Zaman. Their mission is a tough and profitable one, but they are not sadists. Little bit of informal chit-chat and you know it is true. Says Zaman: “Our programme is surviving because of crime. But sincerely we hope for a crimeless society so that we would not have to make such programmes.” And all we say to that is Amen.
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Seasons in the sun
Muffled giggles punctuated with laboured breathing drowns the whisper of cool winter breeze, as the cheerful sun turns the lush green lawns into happy hunting grounds for young couples in the winters of 2005, merrily. For them, it’s nothing but pure bliss. The bright sun warming up the relationships, the vast green expanse and a whiff of fresh air, all add to the romance as the bill-and-cooers make goo-goo eyes at each other. Oblivious of the outside world, they chuck under the chins in their own microcosms as the sun shines on them, gladly. “Blame it on the weather, or the leisure time before the examinations. “Wherever you look, you find young couples having seasons in the sun,” says a regular exerciser Ashu. Wiping beads of perspiration dotting his brow, he smiles, “If you can’t see them, feel their presence in the slight rustle of leaves from behind the camouflaging bushes”. Okay guys! So what if you haven’t seen the turtledoves taking shelter in the sun! It’s never too late. You can drive down to the Leisure Valley, or the Bougainvillea Garden. Even the Sukhna Lake. Take a stroll and find so many mates of circumstances basking in the afternoon sun’s glory.Or else, find lovers in love expressing soft emotions among Rock Garden’s stony structures or whispering sweet nothings on Rose Garden’s green turf. Now don’t you make an attempt to justify their actions by saying that the young birds are only sunbathing. Or else, are trying to have their daily dose of vitamin D. They are not. And their actions say so, loud and clear. Just wait for five minutes and see them turn private in public. Of course, your presence is no deterrent. In fact, the fear of onlookers, the men-in-khaki, and even sun-tanning, is the last thing on their ever shifting minds as they pet and fondle each other in the open. Looking at them from close quarters, senior citizen-cum-regular visitor to the lake Balwinder Singh says, “A decade ago, at least 10 persons would have called up their parents. For, Chandigarh was a small city then. Everyone knew everyone. But now things have changed. The city has grown, and decayed. Now no one cares for anyone. No, not anymore. Everyone is busy in his own little battle....” Scratching his beard with frail fingers, he adds: “In any case, these migratory birds, in search of greener pastures, come to the lake in the summers also. But their numbers greatly increase in the winters”. Pointing towards a pair sitting on a bench, the retired engineer says, “Now look at them, his masculine arm around her fragile shoulders.Well, I don’t mind their presence, but I wish they were a bit more discreet in their actions”. Balwinder Singh’s assertion makes a lot of sense. But plus-two student Stuti, head over heels in love with classmate Rahul, has a different reason to narrate for savouring love in the sun. “No one objects to couples spooning in the warmth of air conditioned fast food joints. Just because we cannot afford curtained room’s seclusion, we are blamed for loitering around in the sun. This is just not done”. As she talks, you realise there is class conflict here also. Well folks, listen to the young pairs. Just don’t let the sun go down on them. Please.
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Health and Fitness Drink water: Urinary tract infections are easily avoidable by regular water intake. Drink plenty of water and fluids all through the day even during winters. Dehydration has already set in if you wait till you feel thirsty. — Dr Rashmi Garg is senior consultant, Fortis, Mohali.
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Catch
them young
Amit, the first boyfriend of Kittu in Kittu sab jaanti hai, talks about his career
The relationship of the hills and the plains is a curious one. The people from the plains run to the hills in summers for a whiff of the cool air and in winters the hill people come to the plains for some warmth. There is a mutual longing for that what is not. The long winters in the hills keep people indoors for long and thus the hill arts and crafts become a source of livelihood.
As the bright winter sun is warming up the relationships, so many
migratory love birds are necking and pecking in the lush green lawns across the city, says Saurabh Malik after looking at them from close quarters 
ARIES : Someone in the family might feel fed up and exhausted; encourage them to take a rest. You have the energy and stamina to do the work of two. Lucky number: 2. Lucky colour: Cherry red. 
LIBRA: You will take everything in your stride. A problem is resolved thanks to your connections with someone in a government or managerial department. Lucky number: 5. Lucky colour: Lime. 
TAURUS : "The Hermit" inspires you to climb new heights. Your opinions are sought after by those around you. Think before you speak to avoid any misunderstanding. Lucky number: 15, Lucky colour: Purple. 
SCORPIO:
Do not allow varying moods to affect your priorities and perspectives. New faces on the work scene will make for a welcome change. Lucky number: 6. Lucky colour: Burgundy.
GEMINI: A friend or colleague is looking to you for guidance. You have the knowledge and experience to help move them forward. Focus on health. Lucky number: 3 Lucky colour: Cherry red. 
SAGITTARIUS: You like perfection but remember this comes with practice. Surprises related with family is on the cards. A new vision and understanding dawns. Lucky number: 16. Lucky Colour: Forest Green. 
CANCER: A commitment is on the cards. Friends seem unable to get on without you. It's a good day to let your heart rule your head. Expenses may not be under control. Lucky number: 4. Lucky colour: Crimson. 
CAPRICORN: "The prince of Wands" comes riding with a promise of power and energy. Your sense of humour takes you smoothly out of difficult situations. Lucky number: 11. Lucky colour: Sea green. 
LEO: "The Priestess" infuses promise and commitment in personal relationships. Take breaks during the day and unwind. A Taurus person brings joy and satisfaction in your life. Lucky number: 14. Lucky colour: Silver grey. 
AQUARIUS: A letter or email could mark the start of an exciting new creative venture. New arrangements go exactly as planned and you feel you couldn't have hoped for better. Lucky number: 2. Lucky Colour: Golden. 
VIRGO: It is fun to be spontaneous. You will inject more closeness into personal relationships. A new idea could be started this evening with the help of a partner. Lucky number: 4. Lucky colour: White. 
PISCES:
A part of you admits to the need for a break or a little treat. Charm others with your winning ways. Stop thinking about the money you should be earning or saving. Lucky number: 6. Lucky Colour: Purple.